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Phrasal verbs "hold off" vs "hold on"

Differences between hold off and hold on

Hold off means to delay or postpone something, while hold on means to wait or pause for a moment.

Meanings and Definitions: hold off vs hold on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hold off

  • 1When bad weather doesn't appear.

    The rain HELD OFF until we'd got back home.

  • 2Stop someone from attacking or beating you.

    Chelsea couldn't HOLD their opponents OFF and lost the game.

Hold on

  • 1Wait.

    Could you HOLD ON for a minute; she'll be free in a moment.

  • 2To hold tightly.

    We HELD ON as the bus started to move.

Usage Examples: hold off, hold on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hold off

Example

We need to hold off on the project until we get more funding.

Example

She holds off on making a decision until she has all the information.

hold on

Example

Please hold on while I find the document you need.

Example

She holds on to the railing when going down the stairs.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold off

postpone

To delay an event or action until a later time.

Example

We decided to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.

put off

To delay or avoid doing something that needs to be done.

Example

He tends to put off doing his homework until the last minute.

wait it out

To delay taking action and wait for a situation to change or improve.

Example

We need to wait it out and see how the market responds before making any investment decisions.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on

hang on

To wait for a short period of time.

Example

Can you hang on for a minute while I finish this email?

stay put

To remain in one place or position and wait for further instructions.

Example

The tour guide asked us to stay put until everyone arrived before starting the hike.

be patient

To wait calmly and without complaining.

Example

You need to be patient and give the medicine time to work before expecting results.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in hold off vs hold on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hold off or hold on?

Both hold off and hold on are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, hold on is more frequently used than hold off.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold off and hold on

Both hold off and hold on are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hold off and hold on

The tone of hold off and hold on can differ based on context. Hold off often carries a sense of urgency or importance when related to delaying something, while hold on typically has a patient and polite tone, especially when asking someone to wait.

hold off & hold on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hold on

Synonyms

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